Timeshares have come in for some bad press over the years, but because of this, there are quite a lot of genuine deals to be found providing you know what you are doing.
However, at some point you may wish to sell a timeshare.
There are several reasons why you may be selling a timeshare; perhaps you find travel more difficult now, you may need the money or perhaps you have had a positive experience but wish to move on to another timeshare.
However, as with most things, there is more than one way to achieve your objective and perhaps not surprisingly, there is more than one way to sell a timeshare.
With timeshares, you options are limited and if you use a broker or similar they may require a deposit on their eventual commission before they do anything, or there could be some fees you are unaware of after the sale.
Therefore, care is essential when choosing a broker.
To avoid some of these extra costs, selling a timeshare on your own may be the best way if you have the time and the knowledge you need.
The first thing you should know about selling a timeshare is that you should not rush the process, particularly as you are likely to be dealing with the laws of another country.
Your first port-of-call should be the resort where you have your timeshare.
This is because they will be familiar with this marketplace in their country (perhaps at multiple locations), and will have a genuine interest in the sale for their own reasons.
They may even have a waiting list of prospects they can put you in touch with.
If you were happy with the legal service you had when you purchased your timeshare, try and use the same company again as they will already be familiar with you and your market.
The Internet is also a very useful tool and you will be able to get a few approximate estimates of the value of your timeshare based on the details you enter.
These may vary widely, but they will give you a range at which to pitch your sale.
As a general rule-of-thumb, if you price too high, you'll get no interest and if you pitch too low, you'll get floods! Obviously you want to get as much money as possible, but try to aim at a figure that will get a few interested, but be mindful, they may try to beat the price down so know your base figure! A further benefit of the Internet is of course advertising.
You should seek out all the free ad sites, of which there are many, and put as much information and photographs as you can in your advert.
Don't forget to give an email address where you can be contacted.
It may be an idea to create a new email account just for this, as you don't want a load of spam coming into your personal mailbox! Lastly, get yourself a good book on selling a timeshare yourself and read it carefully.
If you know someone who has already been through the process, all the better.
The bottom line is of course, be a bit wary, and don't part company with any of your money unless you are completely aware of the consequences.